Reviews by North Sea Phil
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The Event
The Review
Al Smith's Open Mic at the Apache Café is the original Wednesday night set downtown, at the Martini Club. From the balcony overlooking 14th and Crescent Ave. this informal gathering has survived the changing Atlanta cityscape on 3rd and Spring St.
The Apache is an intimate club/restaurant with so much music history within its colorful, art lined, brick walls that it really feels of an informal hangout from a different era. “No rap, no tracks.” Corey, our comedic MC (Mic control) will advise all who sign the list that this set is for singers. (Hip Hop is a different night.) This is the spot where many of Atlanta's local professional musicians socialize and showcase their skills.
Anyone brave enough can sign the list and sing; unknown musicians have an opportunity to play. For this reason a system has been devised to allow the audience to display their dislike of over zealous vocalists eager to impress their dates. Unlike the Apollo, we don't “Boo” anyone out of respect. We raise one arm forward above our heads leveling our hand with a gentile wave in silence to summon Corey to retrieve the mic and call the next singer. This audience participation isn't always unanimous so a show of hands acts as a vote to whether the person may finish their song. There's no “Sand Man”, this isn't NY.
‘Round midnight is when the family of regulars performs and gives the band a chance to stretch and jam. These sessions have included; Li'l John Roberts, Tony Royster Jr., Mike Phillips, Daniel Moore, Derek Scott, Phillipia, Jill Rock Jones, Anthony Perry, Jorel Flynn, Erica Smith, Trina, Heratio, Teddy White, Kelley Price, Peggy, and Godfrey. The list is too extensive to include everyone. I even remember Erica Badu once blessed us with a version of her hit, “Bag Lady.”
The current house band includes Al on keys, KB on drums, Kyle Williams on guitar, and Trey Gilbert or Clarence on bass. Al works with many established jazz and R&B groups and when he's jamming on Wednesday nights he can make natural talent sound very polished.
Final Analysis
If you appreciate informal settings where creativity rules the evening then you need to check out this set. Without exception, every Wednesday is filled to standing room capacity. Reserve a table or bring comfortable shoes, the choice is yours. You will love this unrivaled Atlanta tradition. Enjoy!